The University of KwaZulu-Natal Centre for Jazz and Popular Music proudly presents “Echoes of Marabi”, an SA – Swiss collaboration with Yonela Mnana (SA) and Benedikt Reising (CH) featuring the Soultee Sisters on vocals and Rico Baumann on drums on Wednesday 30 September.

South African Jazz artists have established long lasting relationships with their counterparts from Switzerland which have lasted for many years. The latest project is an astoundingly beautiful and duo album titled “Echoes of Marabi” (2025), a project featuring South African pianist Yonela Mnana and Swiss saxophonist Benedikt Reising. It is an album that celebrates their connection and friendship. They are joined by the dynamic voices of the Soultee Sisters from Katlehong.

Echoes of Marabi. Picture supplied

Reising is no stranger to the South African music landscape, having been part of several projects and tours in the country. Mnana is well established as a pianist, known for his powerful voice and compositions. The duo first met via South African trumpeter Mandla Mlangeni, while touring in 2018 with a Swiss – SA project called The Mill. Their relationship was strengthened upon promoting that album in Europe in 2019 when both Mnana and Reising were based in Bern. They spent a lot of time together and shared musical ideas that they were passionate about.

The concert features Yonela Mnana on piano and vocals, Benedikt Reising on alto & baritone saxophone, bass clarinet, and flute; Rico Baumann on drums; as well as Happiness Siyoko, Nompumelelo Gugu Kubheka and Busisiwe Shongwe on vocals. The Centre for Jazz and Popular Music is located at Level 2, Dennis Shepstone Building, Howard College Campus. Tickets will be available through Webtickets or at the door. They are selling at R130 for general public, R100 for pensioners and R70 for students with a valid card. Doors open at 17h00 and the concert starts at 17h30.